Majority of Japanese Oppose US Military Bases Near Their Homes, New Poll Reveals

Widespread Opposition to US Military Presence

A new poll conducted by the Asahi Shimbun and published on September 13, 2025, reveals that a significant majority of Japanese citizens are opposed to having a United States military base in their vicinity. The survey found that 82% of the 2,376 respondents would not accept an American military base being opened near their homes. This figure represents a notable increase from a similar poll conducted in 2010, where 74% expressed opposition.

Key Concerns Driving Public Sentiment

The primary reasons cited by respondents for their opposition are consistent with long-standing public grievances. The top three negative factors identified in the multiple-response survey were:

• Noise pollution, cited by 1,476 respondents.
• Concerns about crimes committed by US service personnel, mentioned by 1,398 respondents.
• Fear of an increase in accidents, noted by 1,388 respondents.

Additional concerns included the potential for US military bases to become a military target in a conflict and skepticism regarding whether the US would genuinely come to Japan's aid in the event of a war. A further 950 respondents also expressed anxiety about the negative impact on the surrounding environment.

The Disproportionate Burden on Okinawa

The poll results underscore the ongoing debate surrounding the geographical distribution of US military facilities in Japan. The prefecture of Okinawa, which accounts for only 0.6% of Japan's total land area, hosts over 60% of American military bases in the country. This concentration has historically led to heightened local opposition due to the concentrated impacts of noise, environmental issues, and incidents involving military personnel.

While some residents acknowledge the necessity of the US military presence for national defense, particularly amid regional tensions, the sentiment in Okinawa often reflects a feeling of an unfair burden. Polls have consistently shown that a significant percentage of Okinawans believe their prefecture shoulders a disproportionate share of the US military presence.

Minority Views and Broader Implications

Despite the overwhelming opposition, a minority of respondents (18%) in the Asahi Shimbun poll indicated they would be amenable to hosting a base. Reasons for this included the belief that 'the base has to be located someplace' (226 responses), the need to reduce Okinawa's burden (217 responses), and the view that US bases are necessary for defense (169 responses). Some also cited potential employment opportunities and local economic stimulation.

The findings highlight the complex public sentiment in Japan regarding the US military alliance. While the security treaty with the United States is widely seen as crucial for Japan's defense, the local impacts of military bases continue to be a significant source of public concern and debate.